FANZ: Issue 4 (2015)

ISSN 2422–8710

FANZ

The fooTbAll mAgAZine Issue Four, October 2015

bill Tuiloma A FOOTBALLER LEADING THE WAY

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OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FRIENDS OFFANZ:FOOTBALL NZ 1

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF FRIENDS OF FOOTBALL NZ

F ANZ

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Issue 4, October 2015

Legends to be honoured

26 Heritage project

Two legendary All White stars are Our plan to preserve the story of to be honoured at a dinner. our game.

STorY 6 feATure Leading the way

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Friends of Football events

A wrap up of recent activity.

Star players are leading the way for Maori and Pacific Island kids Obituaries who are taking up football.

We lose two significant figures.

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A cup half full

35 International Diary

Blogger Enzo Giordani enjoys a day at the ASB Chatham Cup News about our national sides.

Final.

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Football’s new course

36 Around the Country News from the regions.

FANZ: The Football Magazine is published by Friends of Football Inc.

PO Box 9076 Newmarket Auckland 1149 Editor: Josh Easby email: josh@hurricane–press.co.nz www.friendsoffootballnz.com The contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the group’s membership.

All contents published in this issue remain the property of the appropriate copyright owner and may not be reproduced or copied in any form, print or digital, without the prior permission of the copyright holder.

ISSN 2422–8710

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New Zealand Football sets out Oceania News a brave new course for our top domestic competitions.

OFC and NZF in ‘productive’ talks.

20 Summer action

38 Football Dad

The draw for this summer’s ASB It’s not easy being a devoted father.

Premiership, complete with TV Friends of Football guide.

What our group is all about, who we are and how you can join.

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Media award finalists

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Get Off The Grass

We preview the upcoming football Andrew Dewhurst’s final word. media awards.

PHOTOGRAPHS IN THIS ISSUE Unless otherwise stated, all the photographs in this magazine are the work of Phototek’s Shane Wenzlick, the Official Photographer to Friends of Football.

We are grateful to Shane for giving us access to his photographic library.

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The friendS’ diArY upcoming friends of football events include: celebrATion of eXcellence Friday November 6, 2015 Auckland Grammar Old Boys’ Pavilion, Epsom, Auckland Incorporating the NZ Football Media Association awards, our third annual dinner will celebrate achievement in our sport. www.friendsoffootballnz.com FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

from our ediTor

Let’s get behind bold NZF plan Josh Easby AS WINTER football eases into summer, our attention turns to the ASB Premiership.

Once again, we’ll get the chance to debate the strength of domestic football and whether it’s making progress.

But this summer, we’ll be in a far better position to judge.

New Zealand Football’s deal with Sky Sport to broadcast 32 league fixtures and the play–off games could prove to be a watershed for the competition.

Despite having had national league football in various iterations since 1970, this is the first time the competition has secured such a comprehensive schedule of coverage.

This isn’t a highlights package with the token broadcast of a few matches.

Supporters will be able to see top games every week. Football followers who rarely, if ever, go to matches will be able to see the players who will develop into the next generation of All Whites.

Every bit as importantly, sponsors will see their association with football taken into the living room.

The televison deal is a key step in NZF’s lengthy review of all four national league competitions — for men, women, youth and futsal.

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Community Football Director Cam Mitchell has led an extensive review, consulting more than 100 club representatives, as well as others involved in the game at all levels.

It’s been no easy task.

Since the inception of the Rothmans Soccer League 45 years ago, our sport has struggled to sustain a national competition.

We’ve had: * The original RSL till it became financially unviable in 1992. * The Superclub League (1993– 95). * The National Summer Soccer League (1996–1998). * The North Island and South Island leagues. * The National Club Championship (2000–03). * The NZ Football Championship (called the ASB Premiership) since 2004.

Mitchell’s report calls for brave steps to take forward the existing competition, with aspiring clubs (or alternative entities) urged to field teams in a 30–round men’s league, and sides in youth competitions.

The plan seeks expressions of interest by December.

It’s brave stuff but surely we wouldn’t want our national body to be anything but bold.

It would have been much easier for Mitchell and his team to offer soft options, trading a truly national approach for cost savings.

But regional leagues with national play–offs don’t challenge players to improve through playing with and against the best in domestic football every week.

We need to be supportive and find ways to make the NZF plan work.

And for those who haven’t been to a game for a while, line up the remote control!

hoW To geT PAST iSSueS of fAnZ To read the previous issues of FANZ, go to: http://issuu.com/hurricanepress

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All White legends to be honoured

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wo of New Zealand football’s living legends are to be honoured at this year’s Celebration of Excellence dinner hosted by Friends of Football.

Steve Sumner, captain of the 1982 All Whites, and World Cup veteran Brian Turner will receive the Friends of Football Medal of Excellence to recognise their achievements and contribution to the sport.

They become the third and fourth recipients of the medal after former national coach John Adshead (2013) and long–serving All White Ivan Vicelich (2014).

The November 6 dinner will provide their peers with the chance to honour the pair with tributes.

Sumner (60) played more than 100 times for his adopted country, scoring 22 times in 58 A–level international fixtures.

This included a record six–goal tally in a World Cup qualifier against Fiji, on the way to the 1982 finals in Spain (where he became the first All White to score at a finals tournament).

Turner (66) took part in five World Cup campaigns as a player and member of the coaching/ management team, and went to both the 1982 and 2010 finals tournaments.

He’s a three–time winner of the Player of the Year award.

Steve Sumner

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* For details of how to buy tickets for the Celebration of Excellence dinner, see page 32.

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Brian Turner .... first played for New Zealand in 1967.

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leading the way for maori football Star players such as All Whites captain Winston Reid and U–20 skipper Bill Tuiloma are leading the way for Maori and PaciďŹ c Island kids who have traditionally embraced rugby, rather than football.

Phill Parker, of Maori Football New Zealand, explains how this is benefitting our sport and our kids ...

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Pupils at Kelvin Rd School, Papakura, are embracing football. Photograph courtesy of Phill Parker.

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All White Leo Bertos, whose mother is Maori, has keenly supported Maori Football NZ, becoming its patron.

Photograph courtesy of Phill Parker.

When Phill Parker played football as a kid, he noticed not many players looked like him.

Maori from his mother’s side of the family, Parker had been encouraged to play football by his English father, a former pro with Rotherham United . “(As a young player) I always noticed how not many Maori or Pacific Island kids were playing the game,” he said.

For Parker, it wasn’t a big deal, just something he was aware of as he worked through the ranks of junior and youth football to gain selection for the Junior All Whites in the late 1980s.

Into adulthood, Parker followed the familiar route of travelling Kiwis, heading to Europe for a stint of OE (overseas experience).

He returned home about 10 years ago and discovered things were changing in the way kids were being drawn to football.

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He joined Papakura City, in South Auckland, to play Northern League but also to get into coaching.

“Every (junior) team had half a team of little brown kids. I thought ‘what’s happening here?’.”

Parker said he found many teams in the Franklin District had Maori kids and “it’s always a thrill to see a team with a Maori.”

The successful growth of football among our children was cutting across traditional sporting loyalties.

“Maori footballers would be asked ‘how come you don’t play rugby?’ and often the answer was ‘I do as well’.”

Parker saw an opportunity to grow football within the Maori and Pacific Island community in Papakura and set up a pilot scheme with Kelvin Rd School where he coached teams almost entirely filled with Maori FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

‘Football teaches you how to become a good person …

All the right lessons are there.’ and Polynesians. As well as showing them how to enjoy sport, Parker wanted to pass on the life lessons he had gained from football.

“If interest is there, what’s being done in football provides lessons for life. Football teaches you how to become a good person … all the right lessons are there.”

Over three years working with those kids, Parker saw the positive influence football had on the teams and also on their parents.

“Some of the parents were patched gang members but they all became enthusiastic supporters and wanted the kids to succeed.”

Parker’s satisfaction came from simple things such as two kids who got into a fight but through football became best mates “because someone outside of their bubble showed them a different way.”

In 2009, Parker stumbled upon a bigger opportunity to foster the relationship between football and Maori.

He was invited to enter a New Zealand Maori team into an international futsal tournament being staged in Christchurch.

With no background in futsal, Parker still decided it was worth a go.

“I had no idea what I was doing,” he said. “I was aware that rugby had a tradition of selecting Maori teams but I didn’t know if football had tried to do it.

“I went public with radio advertising and community ads, calling for Maori footballers to come along to trials.

“It was a disaster, really. Only a few players got in touch … two from Hamilton, one from Tauranga …”

One CV arrived in the mail that was different — “I read it and thought it was a mistake.”

It belonged to former NZ Knights and Auckland City goalkeeper Ross Nicholson, an All White with 13 international caps to his name.

Gisborne–born Nicholson was keen to lend support to a Maori team.

“I was looking for a new challenge and this seemed ideal,” Nicholson said.

Parker and Nicholson quickly got along and set about recruiting a squad, none of whom had played futsal before. But to them it was important the team reflected Maori values.

They held a training camp at Papakura Marae and talked about what it meant to represent Maori, and the influence Maori values would have on the way the team worked together.

“It really felt like the start of something,” Nicholson said.

Having raised money through iwi connections for travel and kit, the newly–formed New Zealand Maori team developed their own haka.

Their kit was blessed in a marae

The 2009 NZ Maori futsal team brought together Phill Parker (left, back row) and Ross Nicholson (centre, front row). Photograph courtesy of Phill Parker.

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Maori Football New Zealand is the operational arm of Aotearoa Football Charitable Trust. MFNZ was established to promote, through football, cultural and social inclusion for Maori.

Stated Mission To foster opportunities and pathways for Maori to develop, progress and attain their football potential through a Maori holistic approach that nurtures their cultural, social and personal needs.

Stated Vision Recruit, sustain, nurture and expose Maori football players nationally and internationally.

Stated Philosophy The philosophical model of practice underpinning Maori Football NZ’s holistic approach is

ceremony and as word got around, they got support from high profile Maori sportsmen, including All White Harry Ngata.

The team headed off to compete against futsal teams from New Zealand and visiting sides from NSW and North Queensland.

The team lost every game yet Parker says: “This was the best team I’ve ever been involved in.”

Spectators and other players at the tournament were fascinated by the bond between the Maori team.

“The Aussies were fascinated by our team, asking us about how we’d come about. It was a chance for us to share our culture and it was a really positive experience for all of us.”

The futsal experience encouraged Parker and Nicholson to look for more ways to promote football within the Maori and Pacific Island communities.

“It was also helpful that the 2010 All Whites had some high profile players, all with Maori ancestry … players like Leo Bertos, Rory Fallon, Jeremy Christie and Winston Reid,” Nicholson said.

interconnected by four traditional values: 1. Tikanga Maori (centres on Maori customs and traditions).

2. Whakapapa (centres on geneology, history and connectedness).

3. Manaakitanga (centres on supporting relationships and networking).

4.Kapa haka (centres on creative arts).

In 2011, Parker was asked to put together a U–17 team to play a touring Canadian touring team.

Rather than select a Maori team, Parker set about trying to bring together a team that could celebrate cultural diversity.

“It shook a few people up in football administration. I think they were nervous about what we were doing, worrying that we were picking players on race.

“We wanted a team that embraced the Maori culture, a community spirit, and our aim was to use football as a vehicle for celebrating diversity, not restricting it.”

The team included a Swiss, a Scot, an Englishman and two Cook Islanders, as well as Maori. It also had a Samoan boy by the name of Bill Tuiloma.

The squad camped at a marae at James Cook High School, Manurewa, and created their own haka. The players used the marae stay to share their own cultural stories, reflected in wooden carvings, and the process help unify the team.

“Again we saw how football was more than just a game,” Parker said.

Official magazine of Friends of Football

Trustees Chair: Tony Westbrook Patron: Leo Bertos Phill Parker Ross Nicholson Lawna Kani Daniel Cassidy

These days, Parker and Nicholson work with Maori Football NZ to foster opportunities and pathways for Maori to benefit through the sport.

MFNZ is the operational arm of the Aotearoa Football Charitable Trust.

They run junior tournaments in the North Island that are not exclusive to Maori and Pacific Island kids but encourage their involvement.

The FIFA U-20World Cup presented an excellent chance to promote cultural diversity and they staged a tournament, highlighting how people from different backgrounds could enjoy football together.

“We had 112 teams playing five– a–side football – that’s 756 kids, 256 games and four hours to make it happen,” Parker says with pride.

So, what’s next for MFNZ? “We’ll just keep promoting football and finding ways to make it more accessible,” Parker said.

For both ex–players, their work with kids has shown them a new side of the sport.

“It’s enhanced my faith in the game,” Parker says. “Football can transcend anything.”

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Tuiloma leading the way

Tuiloma: “I think it’s typical for Island and Maori kids to play rugby, but when I was a little kid I played football. As I grew older I played rugby at school but football was just the one for me.”

What could New Zealand clubs do better or differently to appeal more to young Maori and Polynesian kids?

Tuiloma: “I think just give them an opportunity to come in, to train and develop. If they are keen to play and it’s their dream to play in a professional environment, just keep on developing them.”

Extracts from an interview with In–The–Back–Of–The–Net blogger Enzo Giordani.

One of New Zealand football’s fastest–rising stars is Bill Tuiloma, captain of the Junior All Whites and a professional with France Ligue 1 club Olympique Marseille.

He’s currently playing on loan for Strasbourg.

Of Samoan heritage, Aucklander Tuiloma played for the U–17 team selected by Maori Football New Zealand in 2011 to play against a Canadian team.

Since then, he’s become a member of the All Whites and the first New Zealander to play at the top level in France, in a competition where a quarter of the players are internationals.

Tuiloma said in an interview with Sunday News that he feels pride in his Polynesian heritage.

“To be able to play for one of the biggest clubs in the French league — it’s a massive achievement for me; as a Kiwi, and as an Islander,” he said.

“I represent all the Island nations.

“I want to show and encourage the young players to strive for their dreams.

“I get random (Facebook) messages from players from Tahiti and New Caledonia asking me ‘how do I do this? You’re a big influence for me.’

“I try and help them, by encouraging them to never give up.

It’s crazy to see those messages, but I’m truly grateful that young players message me and ask for help.”

Midfielder Bill Tuiloma has emerged as one of football’s brightest prospects, having captained New Zealand at the FIFA U–20 World Cup. Photograph: Shane Wenzlick.

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Brendon Barnes celebrates his goal for Eastern Suburbs.

Photograph: Enzo Giordani.

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A cup half full Blogger ENZO GIORDANI enjoys a day at the aSB Chatham Cup Final

WiTh a GaME like this, my ability to add much to the fabric of football culture is limited.

If you care enough about the Chatham Cup to read my musings, you either played in it, you were there, you watched it on the internet or you have already read about it in the mainstream media. So I’ll try not to waste any of your time.

All I’ll do is give you a few quick thoughts about it from my unique perspective standing behind the goal line taking photos.

The first thing I feel the need to get off my chest is this — Trusts Stadium; not ideal.

There, I said it.

The pathological dislike of running tracks is strong in me and when you’ve only got a modest crowd, separating them so far from the action is the stuff brick bats are made of.

Obviously North Harbour wasn’t available. Obviously Park Island was deemed not an option for reasons of cost. But still ...

On to the bouquets and the first one goes to the football gods — thank you, oh twisted ones, for providing us with this perfect draw.

As the champions of the Northern League and the champions of the Central League clashed, we got a rare opportunity to relive the old Superclub days and compare strengths and styles as both teams chased historic doubles.

Opinion appears to be somewhat divided on whether or not this was a recipe for a great contest. One

person who shall remain nameless described it as “AFL with a round ball”, while others seemed to find the whole thing quite exciting.

I was in the glass half full camp.

Let’s face it, nobody turned up expecting to see Johan Cruyff so what’s to complain about?

It was simply what a game like this should be — full of suspense. Like a good cinematic thriller it twisted and turned, just when you thought the villain was dead he sprung back to life, and nobody knew how it would end until right before the credits rolled. What more can you ask of a final?

Napier have some justification for feeling aggrieved.

The awarding of the Jack Batty Trophy for Man of the Match to Miles John, the first player from a losing side to win that award since 1996, was perhaps something of an indication from the boffins that they felt like the best team didn’t win the grand prize. But that’s football, right?

The crowd wasn’t great in terms of sheer volume although the fans who did turn out were full of passion and enthusiasm. It was interesting to consider how many Auckland friends on Twitter appeared to be watching the internet stream.

Would they have been there if it was not available in the comfort of their own homes?

Is this the trade–off that the ASB

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ENZO GIORDANI is the publisher of the popular blog in–The–Back–of– the–net: a Footballaholic in New Zealand (http:// in–the–back–of–the.net). “i just love watching football, photographing it and writing about it.

So that’s what i do. i go to as many local games as i can, watch most of whatever New Zealand television deigns to broadcast, and when my beloved aS roma is playing, i yell and scream at frozen pixelated blurs on the internet. roughly twice a week i blog about the games i’ve been to and what football matters are at the forefront of my mind. i tend to write about the experience of being a fan more than the finer points of the game.”

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Premiership has now made with Sky picking it up? There is a risk of a chicken and egg scenario where it’s better on TV if people are there making noise, but people don’t go because it’s on TV. I’m not saying don’t put it on TV but, just as a word of caution, the powers that be need to make the games attractive to attend at the same time.

Finally, I’ll leave you with the fruits of one of the greatest benefits of photographer accreditation — the privilege of overhearing some funny stuff from the players from time to time.

It’s probably violating some kind of sacred oath to divulge things you hear but I’ll plead ignorance on this occasion because I have to repeat this great comeback from Rhys Ruka when a teammate, setting up for the umpteenth corner in a row, yelled “GET THE BALL… IN THE BOX!!!!”

Ruka’s calm response was to inquire: “How many have I got in there? Have you scored any?”

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Ruka had a real fair dinkum fan club up on the bank, blasting music and chanting his name every time he took a corner at that end. He gave them a subtle little wave that few would have noticed as he was placing the ball to take that one.

Their cheers were the only riposte he heard.

It was a good day.

Eastern Suburbs 2 Napier City Rovers 1 AET Trusts Stadium, Auckland September 20, 2015 FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

new course set for national competitions

‘We have consistently stated our primary objective over the next several years is to work to reposition the game of football in New Zealand.’

—NZ Football CEO Andy Martin

NEW ZEALAND Football has laid out its vision for a revamped structure for its top domestic competitions.

With the licenses of the current ASB Premiership and ASB Youth League franchises set to expire at the end of the 2015–16 season, the review charts changes planned for the next four years.

With the ultimate aim of holding a 10–team, 30–round competition from the 2018–19 season, clubs are invited to express interest by December in obtaining one of a maximum of 10 two–year licenses from 2016–17.

With priority given to the current ASB Premiership franchises, all potential clubs will be required to satisfy licensing criteria linked to Oceania Football and FIFA standards.

New Zealand Football CEO Andy Martin says the detailed review, which sought feedback from every stakeholder group in the football community and beyond, provides a clear mandate to initiate the changes required to raise the bar for top level domestic football.

“We have consistently stated our primary objective over the next several years is to work to

reposition the game of football in New Zealand,” Martin said.

“In order to achieve that, it is absolutely critical we operate a successful, sustainable national league competition which inspires the next generation of players to reach their full potential.

“The exhaustive review process we have conducted has given us a stable platform from which we can make the changes required

to ensure we are running a league which provides the proper linkages from our flourishing junior and youth grassroots base to our international sides competing on the world stage.”

With six different competition formats used at the top level of domestic football since 1970, the review has taken the learnings from each with four options on

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the table to eventually establish open competition which provides opportunity for clubs to gain promotion into the league.

A requirement of the first two– year license period will be that each club also fields a team in a second tier U–19 competition to act as the feeder towards the top competition.

New Zealand Football Community Director Cam Mitchell said the start point for the new vision takes heed of the feedback and experiences gathered as part of the review.

“One of the important learnings from the review has been that under the various league structures we have had, a number of franchises or clubs have experienced great success while others have struggled,” Mitchell said.

“As we set the way forwards we are providing the opportunity for flexibility within the supporting structure of the individual entrants as long as they align to the strategic vision and requirements we need.”

— Source: nzfootball.com

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a bold ‘By getting the ASB Premiership on television regularly, we increase our ability to showcase the pathway available to our players and we can begin to create local heroes for our young players to aspire to on their journey towards the All Whites.’

—NZ Football CEO Andy Martin

‘The ASB Premiership is the connection point between our thriving grassroots base in the Whole of Football programme and our elite international teams operating under the Beyond Football Plan.’

— NZ Football Community Director Cam Mitchell

‘This broadcast deal will help increase the popularity, profile and visibility of football which will help connect more Kiwis to the game, something which will have a positive impact for all our stakeholders.’

— NZ Football Commercial Director Steve Brebner

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Andy Martin

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ViSion TELEVISION will play a major part in the development of football’s top domestic competition this summer.

The streamlined eight–team ASB Premiership includes 59 matches, 32 of which will be broadcast live via SKY Sport, along with a shortened one–leg semi–final and grand–final series.

Wanderers SC, involved over the past two seasons as part of the preparation for the New Zealand side competing at the FIFA U–20 World Cup on home soil earlier this year, drop out of the league while the Wellington Phoenix return for their second year in the competition after their 2014–15 debut.

The action kicks off on Sunday 1 November with the pre–season ASB Charity Cup fixture between Auckland City FC and Team Wellington before the competition proper gets underway on Sunday 8 November with Waitakere United hosting the defending champions in a televised clash at QBE Stadium in Auckland.

The November 12 match–up between last year’s Grand Finalists Auckland City and Hawke’s Bay United is the first of 14 Thursday night games throughout the season – including the competition Grand Final on Thursday 10 March.

New Zealand Football Community Director Cam Mitchell is delighted with the way the league, a key part of the player pathway to international football, is shaping up for the new season.

“The ASB Premiership is the connection point between our

thriving grassroots base in the Whole of Football programme and our elite international teams operating under the Beyond Football Plan,” Mitchell said.

“It is vitally important we have a competition which serves as a proving ground for players looking to make that step in their career and we feel this year’s competition will be the best yet in that regard.”

“The Wanderers SC concept helped to develop a number of players for the FIFA U–20 World Cup and several of them are now among Anthony Hudson’s All Whites squad. That is the calibre of player which will now filter out to the remaining clubs and I’m sure we’ll see competition strengthen even further as a result.”

A new feature of the league for the 2015–16 season is a funding partnership with Trillian Trust which provides the opportunity for clubs to have their season entry fees covered by New Zealand Football if they are able to meet set development criteria.

The criteria cover club’s operational areas in administration and governance, community partnership and on–pitch aspects, such as the employment of suitably

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qualified coaches, and Mitchell says the initiative is an exciting step towards creating a stable competition providing the best possible experience for everyone involved.

“New Zealand Football is committed to raising operational standards across the ASB Premiership with the aim to develop best practice throughout the country,” Mitchell said.

“The Quality Club Mark development programme was launched in 2011 as part of our award winning Whole of Football Plan and in 2016–17 the programme will be developed to include a Quality Club Mark for clubs operating at the ASB Premiership level.

“As stage one of this process we are providing ASB Premiership clubs with an opportunity to have their 2015–16 season entry fees paid if they are able to demonstrate they have the systems and personnel in place to deliver a top quality experience for everyone connected with the club.

“Stable, strong and vibrant clubs are key to our ability to continue to grow the sport in this country and our clubs at the top of the pyramid should serve as examples for that vision.”

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NZ Football Media A

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ew Zealand’s best football writers, broadcasters writer of the Year and photographers will be recognised at Finalists Friends of Football’s Celebration of Excellence Michael Burgess (Herald on dinner.

Sunday)

It’s the second year that the dinner has incorporated the annual awards run by the New Zealand Football Media Association.

The NZFMA started life as the New Zealand Soccer Writers' Association and was set up primarily to help sports journalists cover the Rothmans League, founded in 1970 and notable as the country's first national league in any sport.

The association's first media awards were made in 1980, with a Writer of the Year and Programme of the Year recognised. Further categories were added in photography in 1981 and broadcasting in 1986.

The awards have since evolved to incorporate publications and a regional/community/website writer category.

The NZFMA began collaborating with Friends of Football in 2014.

Association chair Simon Kay says his group is pleased to have the opportunity to continue the relationship this year.

All–rounder Phillip Rollo has reached the finals of three categories at this year’s awards, as he continues to excel with both keyboard and camera.

Now with the Nelson Mail, he won the Regional–Community Writer award in 2012 while at the Waimea Weekly and was judged to have taken the single best football photograph of both 2012 and 2013.

In the Writer of the Year category, Rollo is up against two–time winner Michael Burgess and Steven Holloway, a finalist last year.

Rollo is vying for the Regional– Community category with Anendra Singh, who won this award in 2011, and first–time finalist Andrew Voerman.

In the Photographer of the Year category, Rollo is up against six– time winner Andrew Cornaga, four– time winner Shane Wenzlick and first–time finalist Hagen Hopkins.

Recent Winners 2003 Simon Kay 2004 Terry Maddaford 2005 Michael Brown 2006 Michael Brown 2007 Michael Brown 2008 No award 2009 Michael Brown 2010 Michael Brown 2011 Tony Smith 2012 Michael Burgess 2013 Michael Burgess

regional/community writer of the Year Finalists

Phillip Rollo (Nelson Mail) Anendra Singh (Hawke’s Bay Today) Andrew Voerman (Christchurch Star) Previous Winners 2011 Anendra Singh (Hawke’s Bay Today) 2012 Phillip Rollo (Waimea Weekly) 2013 Jeremy Ruane

Phillip Rollo features as a finalist in three of this year’s award categories.

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Steven Holloway (Herald Online) Phillip Rollo (Nelson Mail)

Michael Burgess Herald on Sunday

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wards

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mATch ProgrAmme of The YeAr

he growth of desktop publishing and availability of digital platforms has helped a resurgence of match programmes within New Zealand football.

While no awards were made for the Programme of the Year category between 2005 and 2009, judges have seen growing competition since.

Finalists in the category this year include 2013 finalist Waitemata (Mark Reid) and first–time finalists Hawke's Bay United and Papatoetoe.

PhoTogrAPher of The YeAr Finalists

Andrew Cornaga (Photosport) Hagen Hopkins (Getty Images) Phillip Rollo (Nelson Mail) Shane Wenzlick (Phototek) recent Winners 2003 Shane Wenzlick 2004 Shane Wenzlick 2005 Michael Bradley 2006 Andrew Cornaga 2007 Shane Wenzlick 2008 No award 2009 Hannah Johnston 2010 Andrew Cornaga 2011 Shane Wenzlick 2012 Andrew Cornaga 2013 Andrew Cornaga

Finalists

Hawke’s Bay United, edited by Matthew Hastings Papatoetoe, produced by Andrew Kirk and Dana Jenkins Waitemata, edited by Mark Reid recent Winners 2000 Otago FA 2001 Island Bay United 2002 Island Bay United 2003 Lower Hutt City 2004 Lower Hutt City 2005–9 No award 2010 Cambridge FC 2011 Napier City Rovers 2012 Petone 2013 WaiBOP United

Hawke’s Bay United Edited by Matthew Hastings

PublicATion of The YeAr Winner

To be announced at the awards. recent Winners 2001 — Stand Up If You Love The Kingz,

by Grant Stantiall and Michael Stephen 2002 — Sitter magazine, edited by Bruce Holloway 2003 — Canterbury Centenary, by John Small 2004 — Spikes History, Rangers FC 2005 — Soccer Talk magazine, edited by Glen Price 2006–08 No award 2009 — Ricki Herbert – A New Fire, by Russell Gray 2010 — Ryan Nelsen’s Road to the World Cup with Tony Smith 2011 — The Waikato Chronicles, by Bruce Holloway 2012 — Strength In Unity, edited by Jeremy Ruane 2013 — Soccer by the Silverstream – 100 Years of Soccer on the Taieri, by W. Cliff Anderson

Papatoetoe Produced by Andrew Kirk and Dana Jenkins

Waitemata Edited by Mark Reid

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

23

T

New zealand footballer of the year

his year’s football media awards will see the re– launch of a trophy that for many years was one of the sport’s most sought–after prizes.

It’s the New Zealand Soccer Writers’ Association’s Player of the Year trophy.

The trophy was commissioned in 1970 to coincide with the inaugural Rothmans Soccer League and its first recipient was Mick Seed, a key player for that year’s champion club, Blockhouse Bay. In the early years, the trophy winner was announced at dinners on the eve of the annual Chatham Cup final.

Some of New Zealand’s best footballers’ names adorn the trophy, and three–time winners have been Brian Turner and Noel Barkley, while dual winners have included Keith Nelson, Grant Turner, Graham Little, Michael McGarry, Fred de Jong and Ben Sigmund.

Steve Sumner.

Photograph: Dave Barker

24

Past winners

The New Zealand Footballer of the Year trophy All White great Steve Sumner received the award in 1983, the year after he led the national team’s campaign at the World Cup finals in Spain.

In the early 2000s, the re–named NZ Football Media Association merged its awards with those administered by the national body.

The Player of the Year was last awarded in 2012 (to Chris Bale) but it has since been dormant.

The trophy has been missing since 2004 (when it was not presented) but has been rediscovered this year by the NZFMA and Friends of Football and will again feature at this year’s Celebration of Excellence dinner on Friday November 6.

NZFMA chair Simon Kay says criteria for judging the award have been refreshed and members will vote for the winner on a 3–2–1 points basis.

1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Mick Seed Ron Armstrong Ian Ormond Maurice Tillotson Brian Turner Roy Drinkwater Keith Nelson Alf Stamp Tony Sibley Brian Turner Brian Turner Grant Turner Keith Nelson Steve Sumner Colin Walker Kevin Hagan Grant Turner Ceri Evans Michael McGarry Noel Barkley Noel Barkley Michael McGarry Noel Barkley Paul Halford Darren McLennan Chris Jackson Batrum Suri Jason Batty Fred de Jong Kris Bouckenhooge Fred de Jong Graham Little Graham Little Andy Boyens No award Grant Young Grant Young Ben Sigmund Ben Sigmund Roy Krishna Aaron Clapham Allan Pearce Chris Bale

So, 45 years after Mick Seed first lifted the trophy, one of football’s most historic prizes will go to a new home ... for a year, at least.

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

RECOGNISING ACHIEVEMENT

Six–time winner of the Audio Broadcaster of the Year Jason Pine receives last year’s award from NZFMA chair Simon Kay. Photograph: Shane Wenzlick.

Audio broAdcASTer of The YeAr In the audio category, two–time television winner and print finalist Gordon Glen Watson, and the Yellow Fever team will attempt to end Jason Pine's six––year stranglehold.

Finalists

TV broAdcASTer of The YeAr

recent winners 2006 Andrew Dewhurst 2007 Jason Pine 2008 No award 2009 Jason Pine 2010 Jason Pine 2011 Jason Pine 2012 Jason Pine 2013 Jason Pine

Winner

To be announced at the awards recent winners (TV and radio combined) 2003 Michelle Pickles 2004 Michelle Pickles 2005 Michelle Pickles recent winners (TV only) 2006 Andrew Gourdie 2007 Andrew Gourdie 2008 No award 2009 Andrew Gourdie 2010 Andrew Gourdie 2011 Gordon Glen Watson 2012 Gordon Glen Watson 2013 Andrew Gourdie

Jason Pine (NZME Radio) Gordon Glen Watson (OFC) Yellow Fever — In The Zone (Dale Warburton, Guy Smith, Evald Subasic and David Cross)

A full house at last year’s Celebration of Excellence dinner at Auckland Grammar’s Old Boys’ Pavilion. Photograph: Shane Wenzlick.

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

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HERITAGE OF THE GAME

‘ ... our history is gathering dust in boxes stacked in spare bedrooms and garages ... ‘ neW ProJecT iS lAunched

F

riends of Football have launched a long–term project to build a digital archive to help preserve the history of the sport in New Zealand.

Called Project Heritage, the plan is to identify documents and images suitable for storing in a digital archive that can be accessed by future generations.

The project will have three key stages:  Finding historical documents (such as books, magazines, match programmes and critical sets of meeting minutes) that tell the story of football in New Zealand.  Providing training and resources to show clubs and enthusiasts how to digitise their own records for submitting for inclusion in the national archive.  Establishing a process for contemporary documents and publications to be added to the archive on an ongoing basis.

Friends of Football chair John Morris said the project was essential to capture the sport’s history before it was lost.

“We have relied in the past on the passion and generosity of volunteers, some of whom (like Vic Deverill and Trevor Rouse) are no longer with us,” Morris said.

“Much of our history is gathering dust in boxes stacked in spare bedrooms and garages. It’s vital we find the best way to preserve these items and make them available for future generations to read and enjoy.”

Project Heritage is currently being scoped by a sub–group of committee members, and has received support from New Zealand Football chief executive Andy Martin.

“This is a long–term project, probably three to five years of work, and will depend on us finding funds and sponsors to underwrite the costs of scanning documents and images,” Morris said.

PHOTOGRAPHS IN THIS ISSUE Unless otherwise stated, all the photographs in this magazine are the work of Phototek’s Shane Wenzlick, the Official Photographer to Friends of Football.

We are grateful to Shane for giving us access to his photographic library.

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FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

FOSTERING FRIENDSHIP

Winner of the Friends of Football 2000m was Gentle Ton Ton, recovering here in the winner’s circle with Friends of Football committee members Barbara Cox, Sam Malcolmson and Brian Turner.

Photo: Josh Easby.

A dAY AT The rAceS EVENT: Friends of Football Raceday VENUE: Avondale Racecourse, Auckland

F

riends of Football members enjoyed a day at the races when they gathered at auckland’s avondale racecourse to renew friendships, talk football and try to pick a winner.

Avondale Jockey Club hosted the first Friends of Football–sponsored raceday, staging seven races and providing a private function room for the football group.

“We know there are many football people who enjoy a day out at the races, so we thought this was a great opportunity for us to extend the profile and awareness of Friends of Football in the community and engage our growing support base in an afternoon of fun, friendship and fraternity,” said FoF chairman John Morris.

The event was organised by former All White Sam Malcolmson, who is a board member of the racing club, and more than 40 Friends of

Football members and supporters enjoyed the afternoon of racing.

Winner of the Friends of Football 2000m was Gentle Ton Ton which paid $17 to win and put a smile on a few faces.

After the last race, Malcolmson

said the success of the day meant Friends of Football would look to establish it as an annual event, giving supporters the chance to mix and mingle during the football season.

neW commiTTee elecTed EVENT: Friends of Football AGM VENUE: Bill McKinlay Park, Auckland FriENdS OF FOOTBall members gathered at Mt Wellington in august for the organisation’s annual general meeting.

Members elected a committee comprising John Morris (chair), Barbara Cox (treasurer) and Cathleen Bias (secretary), and committee members Armin Lindenberg, Brian

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

Turner, Earle Thomas, Andrew Dewhurst ,Josh Easby, Mark Burgess, Steven Laus and Sam Malcolmson.

The meeting acknowledged the efforts of outgoing secretary Armin Lindenberg who was stepping down from the role to be replaced

by Cathleen Bias.

27

A round of golf WiTh friendS EVENT: Friends of Football Golf Day VENUE: Akarana Golf Club, Auckland

Football commentator Andrew Dewhurst (left) with his prizewinning team at the golf day.

Photo: Josh Easby.

Bruce Cullen (right) went this close to winning the $30,000 SsangYong Korando that was the prize for a hole–in–one on hole 3.

Photo: Josh Easby.

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FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

FOSTERING FRIENDSHIP

Fun and prizes at annual golf day

M

ore than 100 football– loving golfers had a great day at the inaugural Friends of Football and NZ Football annual golf day at Auckland’s Akarana Golf Club.

To herald the start of the FIFA U–20 World Cup, it was a wonderful chance for football supporters to share the anticipation of the tournament while playing golf.

More than $40,000 of prizes were up for grabs and just about everyone went home with something.

The biggest potential prizes were a $30,000 SsangYong Korando for anyone who hit a hole–in–one on the 3rd while $5,000 cash was available for those who struck the perfect shot on the 16th hole.

Former internationals Barbara Cox and Brian Turner on steward patrol at the golf day.

Photo: Josh Easby.

Bruce Cullen got within 25cm of winning the car while Chris Talbot went closest to taking home the cash.

An auction afterwards raised almost $5,000 for Friends of Football with the sale of a signed All Whites shirt from the 2010 World Cup Finals raising a healthy $1,500.

The proceeds from the May event will help Friends of Football in their efforts to support the game in New Zealand, through the recognition of excellence and the preservation of the sport’s heritage.

The success of the day has ensured Friends of Football are already planning their 2016 Golf Day.

Official magazine of Friends of Football

29

Chris Talbot (left) went the closest to landing the $5,000 cash prize for a perfect shot on the 16th hole.

Photographs: Josh Easby.

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FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

FOSTERING FRIENDSHIP

NZ Football Chief Executive Andy Martin (right) draws the day to a close as players gather in the Akarana clubhouse.

Official magazine of Friends of Football

 31

UPCOMING EVENT

2015 Medal of Excellence winner Ivan Vicelich (left) with the first recipient of the award, John Adshead, at last year’s Celebration of Excellence dinner.

Photograph: Shane Wenzlick.

A nighT To remember EVENT: A Celebration of Excellence VENUE: Auckland Grammar Old Boys’ Pavilion, Epsom, Auckland DATE:

Friday November 6, 2015

TIME:

6.30pm — 11.00pm

You are invited to a night of celebration as football enthusiasts gather to recognise the contributions of those who help the world’s favourite game prosper in New Zealand.

Our third annual dinner will have guest speakers, the NZ Football Media Association awards and special guests. We will also present our Medal of Excellence to All White legends Steve Sumner and Brian Turner.

Tickets: $85 (FoF members), $99 (non–members), $680 table of 8. Price includes: buffet dinner, complimentary drink on arrival, charity auction, and a night to remember.

Order tickets from treasurer Barbara Cox (b_cox@xtra.co.nz). Be quick — last year’s dinner sold out within days of tickets going on sale.

32

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

The best $25 you’ll spend in football

S

urely, there’s no better value in football than the $25 required to remain a financial member of Friends of Football.

We’ve held our subscription fee to this token amount since inception to encourage membership.

Friends of Football is now steadily growing with more than 100 paid– up members, and interest starting to grow outside of Auckland (where we began).

Your $25 provides you with many benefits:  Discounted prices to FoF events — you’ll save $14, for instance, on the price of a ticket to our Celebration of Excellence dinner in November.  Priority to special deals on tickets and functions at top football events (such as this year’s FIFA U–20 World Cup).  Preview copies of this magazine before it is made available to the public, and you can order hard copies at cost price.

Access to various Friends of Football events held throughout the year.

Our group is expanding the range of its activities all the time, looking to host events that foster friendship, recognise achievement or show support for the game in New Zealand.

During 2015, we have held our first golf day, hosted several social events, staged a lunch in Cambridge and attended matches together.

Subscriptions are due from September 1 each year and can be paid either by sending a cheque (made out to Friends of Football) for $25 to: Barbara Cox, Treasurer, Friends of Football, 38 Disraeli St, Mt Eden, Auckland 1024.

Or you can pay by direct deposit (online or at any bank) to the Friends of Football bank account at the BNZ Dominion Rd branch: Account details: 02 0144 0285148 02 (please give your surname and initials as reference). 

Our members and supporters keep in touch through our Facebook group which you can find at: facebook.com/friends of football nz

WWW.FRIENDSOFFOOTBALLNZ.COM Friends of Football keeps members up to date through its website, designed and edited by Dwayne Barlow, a long–time football enthusiast based in Matamata.

PHOTOGRAPHS IN THIS ISSUE Unless otherwise stated, all the photographs in this magazine are the work of Phototek’s Shane Wenzlick, the Official Photographer to Friends of Football.

We are grateful to Shane for giving us access to his photographic library.

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

To read the previous issues of FANZ, go to: http://issuu.com/hurricanepress 33

OBITUARIES

Former national coach dies Former New Zealand national coach Juan Schwanner has died in Auckland after a long illness, aged 94.

The Hungarian–born coach emigrated to New Zealand in 1966 and soon became the Auckland coach. He took charge of the national team in 1967 for the visits of Manchester United and the Scotland U–23 teams, and took the team to a tournament in Vietnam, giving debuts to a number of young players such as Brian Turner and Dave Taylor.

After two years coaching New Zealand, he left for Europe but returned to coach Auckland club Courier Rangers (1979) and

Blockhouse Bay (1984).

Juan Schwanner’s funeral was held in Auckland in May and was attended by Friends of Football’s Brian Turner and Dave Taylor.

‘On behalf of the international football community, I should be extremely grateful if you could extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones.’

— FIFA President Sepp Blatter.

Juan Schwanner (1921–2015)

A pioneer of women’s football

Marge Twiname (1935–2015)

34

One of the pioneers of women’s football in Auckland, Marge Twiname, has died after a long illness, aged 80.

Marjorie (known to many as Marge) was a Life Member of the Auckland Women’s Football Association, and received Auckland Football’s Long Service medal for her work within the sport.

Her many years of service to Eastern Suburbs, including being club secretary, also earned her a Life Membership of the club.

The Twiname family is well–known for their involvement in Auckland football over many years, with Marge’s daughter Sandra playing for New Zealand in the 1970s.

Marge was the much–loved wife of the late Noel and mother of David, Sandra, Malcolm and Erica, as well as grandma to Julie, Lynn and Emma, and a great grandma to Hunter.

David played National League for Suburbs and Erica played for the club’s women’s team, while Malcolm (Mal) has more recently been a Northern League team manager at Onehunga Sports and is an active member of Friends of Football.

Marge was sister–in–law to Roy, Leo and Tim Twiname, brothers of Noel.

A celebration of Marge’s life was held in the Eastern Suburbs Chapel of Morrison’s Funeral Home, Glen Innes, on August 26, 2015.

The Twiname family have expressed their gratitude to the doctors and staff of Mercy Hospital and St Andrew’s Village for their care and kindness to Marge.

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

F ANZ

INTERNATIONAL DIARY Getting behind our national teams

The fooTbAll mAgAZine SurElY no other striker has managed the achievement of Junior Fern Emma rolston.

Playing against New Caledonia at the OFC U–20 Championships in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, Rolston: * Scored a hat–trick by the fifth minute of the match. * Netted 11 times in a frantic first half, helping New Zealand to a 17–0 lead. * Was subbed off at half–time.

While the game was a mis–match, the result helped New Zealand to qualify for the FIFA U–20 Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea in October 2016.

Rolston also scored a hat–trick in New Zealand’s opening game against hosts Tonga, won 15–0.

U–20 striker Emma Rolston (left) celebrates a goal with team mate Martine Puketapu at last year’s OFC Women’s U–20 Championships.

More opportunities OPPOrTuNiTiES for male youth footballers in Oceania have improved with FiFa’s decision to allow the Oceania Football Confederation an additional slot for the FiFa u–17 and FiFa u–20 World Cups as of 2017.

The decision from the FIFA Executive Committee means OFC will now be represented by two nations at each of these men’s youth events.

OFC President David Chung believes the move will lead to more success for any teams which qualify.

“Being exposed to this level of football at a young age is going to have a positive effect on these players as well as the coaches and administrators who accompany them,” he says.

Chung says hosting the FIFA U–20 World Cup in New Zealand was an opportunity for a second OFC side to present a case for the region.

“As hosts, New Zealand performed brilliantly to gain passage out of the group stage for the first time. On top of that, Fiji debuted at a FIFA event and earned their first win at this level too.

neW ZeAlAnd All WhiTeS

neW ZeAlAnd u–17S New Zealand will face France, Syria and Paraguay at the FiFa u–17 World Cup in Chile.

The draw puts New Zealand into Group F with the following fixtures facing coach Danny Hay and his squad: New Zealand v France Monday 19 October, 5pm (Tuesday 20 October, 9am – NZ time) New Zealand v Syria Thursday 22 October, 5pm (Friday 23 October, 9am – NZ time) New Zealand v Paraguay Sunday 25 October, 4pm (Monday 26 October, 8am – NZ time)

OCTOBER 2015: The All Whites will begin their qualifying campaign All three group games will take for the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia by playing in the OFC place at the Estadio Chinquihue in Nations Cup against Fiji, New Caledonia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Puerto Montt.

Islands, Tahiti, and Vanuatu, and the winner of a preliminary round between American Samoa, Cook Islands, Samoa, and Tonga.

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

35

F ANZ

AROUND THE COUNTRY News from football’s regions

The fooTbAll mAgAZine

FEW PLAYERS can celebrate three decades of competition after only taking up the game at the age of 23 but West Auckland’s Donna Riddell is already planning her next season.

An energetic driving force behind the development of Women’s football in West Auckland, ‘Bubs’ turns 57 next season and says “I still love playing the game, the people I meet and the competitiveness”.

Donna has played for a range of clubs including Te Atatu, Lyndale (now LynnAvon), Waitemata, Air Force & Norwest. Donna’s favourite win she describes “would have to be the back to back victories at the Katikati social tournament. They were awesome trips and always great times with everyone who entered into the tournament.”

BILL DAVIES, the founder of the popular SUB Football social competition, has died aged 75.

Bill died on September 20 at North Shore Hospital after turning 75 just two days prior. He went missing from his healthcare facility a fortnight before and spent five days without food, care or medication. Once found, he was taken to hospital in a serious condition.

Healthy and active for most of his life, Bill developed Progressive Supranuclear Palsy — a condition that affected his mobility, balance and ability to think clearly — and his health rapidly declined over the last 18 months.

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WAIBOP FOOTBALL are seeking expressions of interest for a vacant seat on the federation’s board.

The federation is especially keen to receive interest from suitable candidates from the Bay of Plenty as its current board has no representative from that part of the region, following Deryck Shaw’s resignation this year to take up the presidency of New Zealand Football.

Enquiries and applications can be directed to governance@waibop. co.nz.

Please include a cover letter and current CV in your application.

Applications close on Friday 23 October 2015.

CENTRAL FOOTBALL has announced the co–option of Hawke’s Bay football identity Chris McIvor to its board.

The Director of Sport at Woodford House in Havelock North, McIvor brings experience of playing, coaching and management.

AFTER MORE than 25 years devoted to football, former Football Fern Maureen Jacobson has been inducted into the Sports Legends of Wellington.

The award has acknowledged Jacobson’s contribution to the sport — she was New Zealand Football’s first 50–cap player in the women’s

game. Now 53 and retired from the sport since 1999, she was not expecting such a recognition.

“It was a very nice surprise. There are some really amazing athletes who have achieved a lot on the New Zealand and global stage,” she said.

“To be put in the same list as them was pretty cool.”

FOOTBALL FERN Annalie Longo and former Canterbury United striker Michael White have won Mainland Football’s Player of the Year awards for 2015.

Longo (24) led Coastal Spirit to another Mainland Premier League and Reta Fitzpatrick Memorial Cup double.

White (28) set a new goalscoring record for the Mainland Premier League with 24 strikes for Ferrymead Bays.

FOOTBALL SOUTH have appointed Chris Wright as its new Chief Executive. He succeeds retiring General Manager Bill Chisholm.

Wright joins Football South after working in business development, sales marketing and commercialisation for leading Dunedin technology company AD Instruments.

He emigrated from England to New Zealand in 2008, bringing with him a passion for Nottingham Forest. He has played, coached and managed teams in football.

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

F ANZ

FURTHER AFIELD What’s happening in Oceania

The fooTbAll mAgAZine

ofc And nZf in ‘ProducTiVe’ TAlKS ThE OCEaNia Football Confederation and New Zealand Football say they are set to move forward together following a constructive meeting between OFC President david Chung and NZF President deryck Shaw.

Chung says the discussions were timely and proved extremely productive.

“We believe each Member Association has an important role to play in the development of football throughout the region.”

“New Zealand Football plays a full and active role in the Confederation and we look forward to working to promote and develop football in the region alongside it.”

Shaw says New Zealand Football intends to thoroughly review recent events and ensure that everyone is clear on its position in the future.

“The organisation is committed to working closely with OFC staff and its Member Associations to achieve a common vision for the success of football in the region,” he says.

“NZF has a lot it can share with our regional colleagues, and there is plenty we can learn from them as well. We look forward to continuing to nurture those relationships for the overall benefit of football throughout Oceania.”

Chung says with the two organisations more in tune than ever it is opportune to shine the spotlight back on football.

“To that end, we wish the New Zealand U–17 team all the very best as they represent Oceania at the upcoming FIFA U–17 World Cup in Chile. We are certain they will do their country, and this region proud.”

New business development role

OFC President David Chung

David Chung OFC President ‘New Zealand Football plays a full and active role in the Confederation and we look forward to working to promote and develop football in the region alongside it.’

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

JuSTiN ElliS has been appointed to the newly–created role of OFC Business development Manager.

OFC General Secretary Tai Nicholas says Ellis will be responsible for managing existing commercial activities as well as identifying, developing and implementing income generation programmes and business partnerships.

“Justin’s extensive experience in sales and marketing, including in different sporting environments, makes him a qualified choice for this position,” Nicholas says.

Ellis has been working in sales, marketing and business development for more than 12 years in New Zealand and abroad.

Previous roles have seen Ellis creating and implementing appropriate business strategies for a number of global sporting events working both in–house and as a consultant.

He had a key role in developing the sales and marketing strategy for the 2011 Rugby World Cup New Zealand–based hospitality agent, working with a small team to manage brand representation and meet client objectives.

37

Football Dad A seat on the bench Football Dad was determined not to get involved.

He stood on the opposite side of the field to all the other parents, fiddling with his phone nervously, trying not to be conspicuous.

Weird Lady kicked off her team’s first training with a dreadful rendition of Wheels on the Bus. The Youngest One looked puzzled, but sung along.

It felt like the Extended Mix — five minutes in and it was still going.

Two kids had started wrestling on the ground before Weird Lady had taken any of the eight footballs out of the mesh bag.

“Allllrightty!” she roared with sickening enthusiasm. “Now we’re off the bus, let’s get moving. Two lines please, facing each other — there and there!”

For some unfathomable reason the kids needed “to get those hands and arms going!” she declared.

The Youngest One had a look of enthusiasm on her face, a glance toward her father.

“Goalie,” she mouthed, her eyes wide with joy. Football Dad nodded nervously, trying to smile.

Weird Lady, who was no lightweight, had an issue with her ... ah ... physicality. And co–ordination.

And her all–bulges–showing choice of attire. Every time she moved at anything more than walking speed she looked in danger of tripping over in her gumboots.

“And toss the ball to your partner!” she yelled cheerily, arms out wide like Julie Andrews in that famous still image from The Sound of Music.

38

The scene was ridiculous. The Youngest One was fine — enough backyard sessions with the older sibling meant she could catch and throw — but some of the other children looked incapable of comprehending the instruction.

The two more athletic boys were firing the ball at each other in volleyball style. The fat kid kept throwing it as high in the air as he could, meaning the skinny kid standing on the other line had no

‘ I think it would be sensible if, at the very least, they had a little game, just kicked the ball around.’ hope of catching it.

One father bravely queried: “Don’t you think they should be kicking the ball?”

“Oh no,” screeched Weird Lady, her massive bosom heaving due to her lack of aerobic anything. “That’s in the second half of the training session.”

Football Dad was fighting an incredible urge to speak up.

“C’mon, some of these kids are new,” offered the other father.

“Some haven’t been shown how to kick a ball.”

“Ummmm ... he’s got a point,” added another mother, looking concerned. “My son has never played before. I think he needs to learn about the very basics.”

Football Dad muttered a stream of foul language no–one could hear.

“Please,” added the mother, brandishing an umbrella and an iPhone. “I think it would be sensible if, at the very least, they had a little game, just kicked the ball around.”

The Youngest One seized her opportunity.

“I’ll be goalie,” she yelled cheerily, running off to her bag. “Got some gloves already!”

Other kids used training bibs as tug–of–war ropes.

“Boys versus girls!” announced Weird Lady. “Boys versus girls!”

Football Dad could stand it no more. He turned angrily away from the field and stormed off to a park bench 35 metres away.

“No idea,” he thought to himself: “No bloody idea whatsoever.”

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

fooTbAll dAd a long–time writer, Football dad’s identity is a well–kept secret in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty where he writes his regular column for the award–winning matchday magazine of WaiBOP united, The range.

OFFIcIAL MAGAZINE OF FrIENds OF FOOTBALL

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FRIENDS Our aims & purpose FRIENDS OF FOOTBALL is an independent group of people with a common interest in sharing their love of the ‘beautiful game’ and its rich and proud history as the globe’s most popular team sport.

We’re passionate about protecting and promoting the positive aspects of the game to others — young and old — and the benefits it provides to the wider community.

Our Vision We’ll create opportunities for people to share their love of football without boundaries of age, colour/ ethnicity, gender or status.

Our Mission  To promote the positive aspects of football as widely as possible, particularly among young people.  To foster fellowship and a love for the game among friends spanning all spheres of football — playing, administering, officiating or supporting — from the cradle to the grave.

Our Goals/Objectives  To promote and enhance the profile of football through our membership.  To acknowledge and salute those who have made a significant contribution to NZ Football 40

 To encourage greater publicity and promotion for football at all levels and to support national men’s women’s and junior teams both at home and abroad  To foster social and business networking opportunities between members.  To generate the same passion and zeal for our national teams playing at home similar to cricket’s ‘Beige Brigade’ and the Phoenix ‘Yellow Fever.’  To develop a ‘home’ for football memorabilia which could, in time, become a showpiece for local and international visitors.  To provide a means to be able to offer talented juniors the opportunity to train and trial with a professional club in New Zealand or abroad.  To inspire talented young Kiwi male and female footballers through a connection with the game’s sporting icons.

Football’s Heritage We believe the heritage of our game should be nurtured and

HOW TO JOIN US It costs just $25 a year to be a member of Friends of Football.

To join, write to FoF Treasurer Barbara Cox, 38 Disraeli St, Mt Eden, Auckland 1024, or email details to b_cox@xtra.co.nz.

Send cheque made out to Friends of Football to Barbara (see address above), or you can pay by direct deposit (online or at any bank) to the Friends of Football bank account at the BNZ Dominion Rd branch: Account details: 02 0144 0285148 02 (please give your surname and initials as reference).

preserved, to recognise those who have contributed in the past and to inspire those in the future.

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

OF FOOTBALL

The committee of Friends of Football. From left: Earle Thomas, Josh Easby, Armin Lindenberg, Sam Malcolmson, John Morris (chair), Brian Turner (founder), Barbara Cox (treasurer), Mark Burgess, Andrew Dewhurst. Photo: Shane Wenzlick.

Meet our committee

John Morris, ONZM, Chair A member of the Blockhouse Bay side which won the National League–Chatham Cup double in 1970, goalkeeper Morris represented New Zealand from 1970–73 and was Auckland Player of the Year 1977.

He gained NZFA Regional and NZFA Staff Coach certification, coaching school, regional and National League teams. He was NZ Football chair (2002–08) and was a member of FIFA’s Technical Committee.

After 20 years as Headmaster at Auckland Grammar School, he now works as an education consultant here and overseas.

Cathleen Bias, Committee Having worked for New Zealand Football between 2006 and 2015, Cathleen brings to our committee a thorough knowledge of the processes that drive the game in this country. Her work for NZF

Cathleen Bias.

covered projects and events, and overseeing Goalnet, the sport’s player database. She has also worked as team manager for the NZ U–17 women’s team and follows other sports, including BMX. Dr Barbara Cox, MBE,Treasurer A former captain of both New Zealand and Auckland Football representative teams. She has coached and administrated football at all levels of the game and has written extensively on the history of the women’s game in New Zealand.

She is currently CEO of the Bill McKinlay Park Trust and chairperson of University–Mt Wellington AFC .

Official magazine of Friends of Football

Brian Turner, Founder Debuting as a 16–year–old, Turner played 102 times for New Zealand, including 59 full internationals, between 1967 and 1982, and in three World Cup campaigns. He played professionally for Chelsea, Portsmouth and Brentford and was three times NZ Year Player of the Year, and three times Auckland Player of the Year.

As an assistant coach or manager, he took part in two World Cup campaigns, and was coach Ricki Herbert's assistant with the undefeated All Whites squad at the 2010 finals in South Africa.

He was admitted to football's Hall of Fame in 1995.

Sam Malcolmson, Committee A member of the 1982 All Whites who qualified for theWorld Cup finals in Spain, Malcolmson continues his involvement in football through media work and coaching school football in Auckland.

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He’s coached at senior level and been an administrator, utilising business skills gained with sports companies such as Adidas, New Balance, Umbro and Starter.

Armin Lindenberg, Committee During 18 years as a newspaper journalist, Lindenberg covered the 1981–82 World Cup campaign and two Olympic Games, winning NZ Sports Writer and Sports Journalist of the Year awards.

The last 25 years, he has worked as a communications consultant, specialising in media relations, corporate and stakeholder communication.

He is a Life Member of Eastern Suburbs AFC and of the NZ Sports Journalists Association, and a Fellow of the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand.

Mark Burgess, Committee A dual New Zealand international, Burgess played 50 cricket tests for his country and played once for the New Zealand football team (against Manchester United).

As a youngster, he was New Zealand Football Player of the Year in 1965, and represented the national U23 team.

In the 1990s, Burgess served on the national council of New Zealand Soccer (now NZF).

Andrew Dewhurst, Committee Andrew began broadcasting with The Radio Network in Wellington in the 1990’s before moving to Auckland as one of the original hosts on Radio Sport.

Now director of his own media and PR company Gracie Productions, Andrew splits his time between broadcasting with SKY Television as football and tennis commentator and managing sports clients such as the SKYCITY Breakers, Triathlon New Zealand, Basketball New Zealand and Badminton New Zealand.

He played National League (briefly) and Northern League football.

Earle Thomas, Committee Thomas played 49 times for New Zealand between 1967–80, scoring 19 goals, and he captained the All Whites 1975–76.

For his club Mt Wellington, he scored 99 goals in 187 games. He has held senior management roles with sportsgoods firms Spalding, Top Flite and Calloway.

He’s now a director of a sports importing business, and still coaches junior football.

Josh Easby, Committee Cambridge–based Easby has written about football for 40 years, editing books, match programmes, websites and since 1997, the daily email newsletter There’s Only One Arthur Bottom for fans of English League Two club York City (of which he is a former director).

He's on the committee at Cambridge FC where he coaches women’s football. He's the owner of book publishing company Hurricane Press and he’s deputy chair of Radio New Zealand.

Steve Laus

Steve Laus, Committee Laus played more than 300 games at top level for various northern clubs including Bay Olympic, Central United, East Coast Bays and Onehunga Sports. He’s the North Island manager for a national auto parts supply company, and brings his commercial expertise as well as his knowledge of football to our committee.

PHOTOGRAPHER Phototek’s Shane Wenzlick is the Official Photographer to Friends of Football. We are grateful to Shane for giving us access to his photographic library for use in our publications and at our events.

A REMINDER TO FRIENDS OF FOOTBALL MEMBERS Annual subscriptions are due (from September 1) and we urge members to pay as soon as possible to get the full year benefit.

Our committee has decided to hold the subscription at $25 to encourage growth of membership —it works out at less than 50 cents a week!

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You can pay either by sending a cheque (made out to Friends of Football) for $25 to: Barbara Cox, Treasurer, Friends of Football, 38 Disraeli St, Mt Eden, Auckland 1024 Or you can pay by direct deposit (online or at any bank) to the Friends of Football bank account.

We bank at the BNZ Dominion Rd branch.

Account details: 02–0144–0285148–02 Please give your surname and initials as reference.

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE

THE 30–SECOND TEST THAT COULD SAVE YOUR SIGHT Former All Whites coaches Allan Jones and John Adshead have been campaigning to raise awareness within the football community of a condition that puts your sight at risk.

THE TEST

Amsler Grid The Amsler Grid (above) is a useful tool to detect vision problems resulting from damage to the macula (the central part of the retina).

How to do it: 1. Cover one eye, then focus on the dot in the centre.

2. Do any of the lines look wavy, blurred or distorted?

3. Are there any missing areas or dark areas in the grid?

4. Don't forget to test both eyes.

5. If you see wavy, broken or distorted lines, or blurred or missing areas of vision, you may be displaying the symptoms of Macular Degeneration.

Contact your doctor or optometrist immediately.

Having worked as an ambassador for the charity Macular Degeneration NZ, Jones has been actively encouraging football players and supporters to take a simple test to check whether they’re at risk.

Macular Degeneration causes progressive loss of central vision but the peripheral vision is not affected.

It is the leading cause of severe vision loss. One in seven people over the age of 50 years is affected in some way and the incidence increases with age.

The macula is the central part of the retina, the light–sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. The retina processes all visual images.

It is responsible for your ability to read, recognise faces, drive and see colours clearly.

Jones and Adshead spearheaded this year’s raceday at Ellerslie Racecourse, an event that raised about $46,000 for the charity and that attracted many well–known football personalities.

Macular Degeneration is thought to be caused by genetic and environmental factors. People over the age of 50 years are at risk.

If you smoke or have a family history of Macular Degeneration, your risk of developing the disease is much greater.

For more information we encourage everyone to visit www. mdnz.org.nz.

CHARITY RACEDAY EVENT: MDNZ Raceday VENUE: Ellerslie Racecourse, Auckland DATE: Saturday 20 February, 2016 Macular Degeneration New Zealand will again host a charity raceday at Ellerslie on Saturday February 20, 2016.

This is a prestigious race meeting when top horses will be competing as part of their lead up preparation for the Spring Carnival and Auckland Cup. With more than 400 guests at the 2015 raceday, MDNZ hope to swell numbers to more than 500 to enjoy this extravaganza.

The day includes a drink on arrival, delicious lunch (cash bar), afternoon

Official magazine of Friends of Football

tea, auction, racing celebrities, tipsters, and a professional MC. Importantly, it is a great opportunity to meet again with friends and acquaintances, old and new, and enjoy a fun and relaxing day whilst supporting Macular Degeneration New Zealand.

Many Friends of Football members supported this year’s MDNZ raceday and anyone wanting to go to February’s day can contact secfof@ gmail.com.

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geT off The grASS The final word from Sky Sport commentator Andrew Dewhurst MY THOUGHTS this issue are very personal ones, personal to me yes, but mostly personal to Steve Sumner and his family given recent news that the former All White captain has prostate cancer and faces a significant battle in the weeks and months ahead.

Can I start by saying my thoughts, like all in the football community, are with you and your family, Steve.

I have had the honour of knowing you for many years now and I have no doubt that you will approach this challenge meticulously and with the same tenacity and competitive spirit that served you so well during your playing days.

In any conversation about the greatest player to represent our country, the name Steve Sumner always has to be in the reckoning for me — yes, even alongside the likes of Wynton Rufer and Ryan Nelsen.

Perhaps I am biased given I was privileged to see Steve playing at my club (Manurewa) during the heyday of the Rothmans League, even getting to train with him as a wide–eyed youngster making his way in the game.

But that ‘bias’ comes only through having had a close up view of a player without peer (in my opinion) in regards his competitive streak and desire — and by saying that I don’t

mean to diminish Steve’s technical ability because he had plenty. He was a complete midfielder for me, with the ability to smash someone in a tackle, dust himself off and then play a defence splitting pass to set up a goal scoring chance — so many times it was a Sumner– Woodin combination.

I recall a game at Gallaher Park (that will take a few people back …) when University came to play, bringing with them a fairly vocal fan base at the time. Steve was recovering from foot surgery and was on the bench, he went around behind the Western end of the pitch to warm up and was taunted by these fans — many of whom might have spent a few hours at the nearby Cossie Club before stumbling to the ground.

Anyway, long story short, Steve invited one particular fellow to come ‘his side of the fence’ and continue the conversation.

Fool that he was, the fan obliged and with as clean a one two combination as you will ever see, Steve put him well and truly in his place before calmly continuing his warm up in front of a now much quieter group of away fans.

This is not to say that Steve was violent, he just didn’t take any shit, not from anyone. He was fiercely proud of his club and country and woe betide anyone who stood in his way.

And the passion still burns strongly with Steve; he loves the game, he loves this country and he loves doing his thing for the code whenever and however he can.

Like the many challenges you won during your playing days Steve, line this one up and knock it down and come out the other side a winner.

You go into this one with the support of the entire football community behind you.

F ANZ

The fooTbAll mAgAZine 44

To read the previous issues of FANZ, go to: http://issuu.com/hurricanepress

FANZ: THE FOOTBALL MAGAZINE